Shooting Near D.C. Jewish Museum Claims Two Lives

On Wednesday night, a gunman fatally shot two Israeli embassy employees outside the D.C. Capital Jewish Museum, shouting “free Palestine” during what many are labeling an anti-Semitic attack. The victims, Yaron Lischinsky and Sarah Lynn Milgrim, were reportedly dating and working together at the Israeli Embassy.

“This week, the young man bought a ring in Jerusalem, intending to propose to his girlfriend,” said Israeli U.S. ambassador Yechiel Leiter. “They were a beautiful couple who came to enjoy an evening at the Cultural Center in Washington.”

According to reports, Lischinsky and Milgrim were Messianic Jews, a term that describes individuals who, while ethnically Jewish, believe that Jesus is the Messiah.

Authorities have stated that the shooting was “targeted.” The suspect, identified as 30-year-old Elias Rodriguez, reportedly shot the couple before exclaiming, “I did it for Gaza” and “Free Palestine.” He hails from Chicago.

Rodriguez’s social media posts were noted to contain anti-Israel sentiments.

“Yaron and Sarah were our friends and colleagues. They were at the height of their lives,” expressed the Israeli Embassy in a statement.

The statement labeled the suspect a terrorist.

“The entire embassy staff has been heartbroken and devastated by their murders,” the statement continued. “There are no words to express the depths of our sorrow and fear in this devastating loss. Our hearts are with their families, and the embassy is by their side during this terrifying time.”

President Trump responded to the situation, condemning the actions. “Hate and radicalism have no place in America. I express my sadness to the families of the victims. I am saddened that this kind of thing can happen! God bless you!” he wrote.

Attorney General Pam Bondy indicated that the federal government will do “all in our power” to ensure the safety of the Jewish community and pledged that the suspect would face the “maximum extent of the law.”